Thai Iced Tea, known as “Cha Yen” in Thailand, is a beloved beverage that combines the robust flavors of black tea with the creamy sweetness of condensed milk. This vibrant orange drink is not only refreshing but also a delightful treat for any time of the day. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the steps to make authentic Thai Iced Tea, share some helpful tips, and answer frequently asked questions to ensure your tea turns out perfect every time.
What is Thai Iced Tea?
Thai Iced Tea is a popular drink in Thailand, made from strongly brewed black tea, sweetened with sugar and condensed milk, and served over ice. The distinctive orange color comes from food coloring added to the tea leaves, and the flavor is often enhanced with spices like star anise and tamarind.
Ingredients
- Black Tea Leaves: Thai tea mix or any strong black tea like Assam.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar to sweeten the tea.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds creaminess and sweetness.
- Evaporated Milk: For additional creaminess.
- Ice: Lots of ice to serve.
- Optional Spices: Star anise, cardamom, or tamarind for extra flavor.
Instructions
- Brew the Tea: In a pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add 4 tablespoons of Thai tea mix or black tea leaves. If using spices, add 1-2 star anise pods and a pinch of cardamom. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Strain the Tea: Remove the pot from heat and strain the tea into a heatproof container to remove the tea leaves and spices.
- Sweeten the Tea: While the tea is still hot, add 1/2 cup of sugar and stir until completely dissolved. Let the tea cool to room temperature.
- Prepare the Glasses: Fill tall glasses with ice cubes.
- Mix the Tea: Pour the cooled tea over the ice, filling each glass about 3/4 full. Add 2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk to each glass and stir to combine.
- Top with Evaporated Milk: For an extra creamy texture, top each glass with a splash of evaporated milk.
- Serve: Serve immediately with a straw and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Thai Iced Tea
- Use Strong Tea: The key to a good Thai Iced Tea is a strong brew. Don’t skimp on the tea leaves.
- Sweeten While Hot: Adding sugar while the tea is hot ensures it dissolves completely.
- Chill the Tea: Let the tea cool before pouring it over ice to prevent it from diluting too quickly.
Conclusion
Thai Iced Tea is a delightful and refreshing drink that can be easily made at home. With these tips and a bit of practice, you’ll be able to enjoy this exotic beverage anytime you like.
FAQs
Q: Can I make Thai Iced Tea without food coloring? A: Yes, you can make Thai Iced Tea without food coloring. The tea will not have the traditional orange color, but the flavor will be just as delicious.
Q: Can I use a different type of milk? A: Yes, you can use any type of milk, including dairy-free options like almond milk or coconut milk. However, the flavor and creaminess may vary.
Q: How do I store leftover Thai Iced Tea? A: Store any leftover tea (without ice) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add ice and milk just before serving.
Q: Can I make Thai Iced Tea in advance? A: Yes, you can brew the tea and sweeten it in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and add ice and milk when ready to serve.
Q: What can I serve with Thai Iced Tea? A: Thai Iced Tea pairs well with spicy Thai dishes, as its sweetness helps balance the heat. It also makes a great standalone treat.
Enjoy your cooking and happy sipping!